Vernon to light up!

Photo: Camillia Courts Photography

There may be a lack of snow but downtown Vernon is getting set for its Christmas Light Up celebration this coming weekend.

Certain to put residents in the holiday spirit, the event takes place on Saturday Nov. 26th, 3-7 p.m.

The Downtown Vernon Association has arranged for free parking and transit to and from the downtown to help make the event accessible to all.

The entertainment kicks off at 3 p.m. with entertainers including the C-Tones Choir, Argyll Dance and Tim Osborne. As well, choirs will sing some of the first Christmas carols of the holiday season.

The official Light Up ceremony takes place at 5:15 p.m. at the MNP main stage. MNP is sponsoring the event.

Some downtown businesses have embarked on the 'hot chocolate challenge' and will be offering free samples at El Gusto Latino Market, Bean Scene Coffee House and Cracked Pot Coffee.

Free photos with Santa are always the highlight of the evening and this year Santa is being hosted by The UPS Store between 3-7 p.m. although Santa needs to take a break to light the Christmas tree.

Kids can also write their Christmas wishes to Santa Claus and say hello to the reindeer at the Letter To Santa station hosted by Telus.

The DVA says there will be “a ton of activities either free or by donation supporting local charities” including:

• Nature’s Fare Markets hosts ornament decorating
• Vernon Fire Rescue and Santa's Anonymous hold a bonfire where you can roast a marshmallow
• Salvation Army and Vernon Public Art Gallery are hosting craft stations and Vernon Teach & Learn an activity station

Drivers are warned that in order to prepare for the event on Saturday, 30th Avenue – from 30th Street to 33rd Street – will be closed starting at 12:00 p.m.

More information can be found online or contact the DVA office (250.542.5851).